Magic of Gifted Hands – A Cultural Heritage

Magic of Gifted Hands – A Cultural Heritage

The year was 1991 and after the miseries of severe recession, the Indian Government had just announced its new policy of economic liberalisation.

Its promise of opening up India’s economy to the world, galvanized Haryana businessman R.K. Bansal who lost no time in heading for the villages of West Bengal, the nation’s jute capital.

So began Jutex India which will present its latest ranges at the Global Sourcing Expo, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, November 19-21.

Two generations on, the family-owned business which specialises in rugs, mats, bags and baskets is widely renowned for its intricately woven home textiles. They are functional, decorative and environmentally impeccable. As Jutex India notes, jute – known as the golden fibre – is 100% organic and biodegradable.

Rich variety from kaftans to kitchen accessories will be on offer at the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts India pavilion, though one of the 16 exhibitors will have a seductive edge: Mysore’s N. Ranga Rao & Sons, multi-award-winning leaders in agarbathi (incense sticks) since the family company was founded in 1948.

Recent years have seen the addition of fragrances, personal care products, luxury soaps and air purifiers, though the core values of founder Sr. N. Ranga Rao – “a simple man with lofty ideals” – remain intact under current CEO Arjun Ranga.

Among the company’s initiatives is the NR Foundation, a non-profit charitable trust devoted to education, health, art, culture and services to the physically challenged. As well, scholarships are offered to the children and grandchildren of employees – 75% of whom are women.

Quality handwoven rugs and carpets have been synonymous with Hafizia Art & Crafts since the Uttar Pradesh-based company was founded by H.M. Akram in 1992.

Hafizia has won strong recognition for its homewares including bed, table and kitchen linens, throws, cushions and curtains. The company now exports to more than 40 countries and is a member of Good Weave International.

Two highly specialized companies epitomize India’s formidable manufacturing versatility. Headquartered in Kolkata and established in 2018, Greeno Bags is a whipsmart young outfit whose predominantly jute and cotton eco-friendly bags – shopping, promotional, tote, beach and many more – combine function and fashion to winning effect. Indeed, to the tune of US$3 million in annual turnover.

“Tiny can be stunning” should be the motto of New Delhi’s Times Art. “Door knobs, wall hooks, door handles, kitchen accessories,” reads the Expo’s product category section. Trade visitors are likely to be transfixed by the door knobs. Each is a miniature ceramic work of art. Marvellous!

The 16 exhibitors are supported by India’s Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts.